Do I Need Dance Shoes?

After much dithering for over a year, I finally purchased dancing shoes and they truly make all the difference. Quite amazing actually. I encourage all to do the same …especially the guys.

Rick in Summerland

There are 3 options for what to wear on your feet. Let me start by saying that skating with hobnail boots is counter-productive and so is dancing with rubber soles or tread or platform shoes to name a few.

My students are encouraged to bring 2 sets of shoes; one for the dance floor and one for the street. This not only protects the beautiful hardwood floor from street grime but also assists the student in proper turning ability. You will be asked to turn on one ball of foot from 1/4 to even 4/4 of a turn to the right and the left. Don’t worry, it will be fine.

Suggestions:

Real dance shoes with a suede leather bottom can be purchased at Dance Essentials in Kelowna. They have men’s and women’s shoes at around $100. They also have a website to look at the shoes.

If you have a favourite shoe that you don’t mind turning into a dance shoe then consider taking that pair of shoes to Cannery Shoe Repair in Penticton or perhaps one in Kelowna. They will shave off the bottom rubber and/or tread of your shoe and glue on to the sole and heel, a split leather cowhide with the fuzzy side down toward the floor for the best performance.

If the women and men students have a pair of shoes with a slippery plastic bottom or leather bottom, then that will do for now. Do not stress over having to have the perfect set of shoes for your introduction to dancing. Do the best you can for now and then eventually you will see that the proper shoe will be a great asset from the foundation up just like any house that is being built.

Ladies should also wear a shoe that straps your heel in. Open toed shoes can also be a hazard. Consider having a shoe that covers your toes for safety reasons. Shoes that have no higher than a 2″ heel are preferred. If you ladies are considering a real dance shoe then consider what is called a “dance workshoe”. That is what I call it and most women call it that too. There are several shoe makers that have different brand names. It looks more like a man’s Latin cuban heel shoe. You say ugh! Consider again that 90% of serious dancers choose these shoes. They cover Latin, swing and ballroom dancing for a “one shoe fits all”. They come in black or cream. Typically women who dance have those shoes plus 2 or 3 more depending on the dance genre and sex appeal of the shoe. I am sure the clerk will fit you well no matter what you choose. Shelly Gottfred is the owner and she is expecting you.

One last thing. Ladies: Dress casual to my classes. A dress or skirt with movement or slacks is just fine. We are just learning and practicing after all. My studio is also scent free too please.

Dance Essentials

Cannery Shoe Repair

Penticton – 250 492 5501 – #307 1475 Fairview Rd

About Us

Our social classes are designed for any beginner who has always wanted to learn dance. We make our classes fun and easy, while still imparting the correct technique and style. Our specialty is in the “rhythm & smooth” dances; which include the following Swing, Latin, Ballroom, Country 2 Step and Club Style Dances. You can also refer to these styles of dance that we teach by reading History of Dance in the menu bar at the top of every page.